Archive for the ‘Travel’ Category

‘Twas the week before Christmas and all through the villa…

Not a creature was stirring…well, except maybe your personal chef, who just might have been whipping up an extraordinary Christmas dinner for you and your family to enjoy. Oh, and your personal butler, if that’s the way you like a Martini. You know, “stirred”.

You see, when you book one of our Aspen luxury home rentals, you and your loved ones are free to sit back and really enjoy one another’s holiday time together, the way it ought to be. We’ll take care of the rest. We mean it.

In fact, if you would like your Villazzo butler to dress up like Santa, it is no dream. And should you need him to run your errands, or even do some last minute holiday shopping on your behalf, this too can be arranged.

Whether it’s business or pleasure, Villazzo suggests you treat yourself, your nearest and your dearest, to a merry little holiday trip. Book one of our wintery-wonderful, luxury Aspen villas, and we’ll deck your halls with boughs of holly, or just about anything on your wish list.

While your impossibly thoughtful butler continues stirring his surprise butternut squash recipe (or whatever it is that he might be concocting with utmost care) and the glazed, sizzling tenderloin scents the air, you’ll be absolutely free to frolic as you wish. There are so many ways to have a jolly ole time in Aspen. It’s a most favorite time of year there, and it would be an utter shame if you did not make the most of it all.

Just think. Your own chef, your own butler, the time you will save, the peace of mind you will have, and the overall merriment you will share could mean an especially relaxing evening spent hand-in-hand with your significant other. Or, perhaps it’s all about that extra time on the slopes and the last skier standing. Either way. Helping to forge your lasting memories is our business. How you decide to spend your precious time is yours.

In case you’re up for some expert guidance, though, Villazzo has compiled the following “hot-list” of vacation activities for you to consider while you stay with us.

12 DAYS OF ASPEN

From outdoor adventures to more urban, cultural events including local theatre, film screenings, cooking classes, art classes, book readings, and a partridge in a pear tree so to speak, the Aspen Chamber Resort Association (ACRA) offers a rather amazing itinerary of things you can do with the whole family. Here’s an entire twelve-day program of delightful pastimes sure to bring your clan closer together.

ULLR NIGHTS

It’s the ultimate in winter wonderland revelry. If you’re looking for that merrymaking shindig for all to enjoy, look no further than Snowmass. Start by taking everyone on an enchanting evening gondola ride up to Elk Camp. Then, get on with your tubing, your snow-biking, your s’mores, the giant bonfire, a little hot chocolate, fantastic live music, dancing, two turtle doves and partridge in a pear tree. Sorry, we couldn’t resist. Hey, this mostly-outdoor festival packs it all in, even a new, thrilling “Breathtaker Alpine Coaster” amusement ride. And, it’s all part of a time-honored homage to the Norse God of Snow, Ullr, if you needed yet another interesting reason to check it all out.

DOG SLEDDING

Talk about making memories; this will surely leave you on an extreme Rocky Mountain high. After all, how often do you get to arrive anywhere by actual dogsled? This one is said to be pulled by a large pack of overzealous Alaskan Huskies, eager to get carried away while carrying you with them. You might even catch Santa Claus at an intersection, or at least hear his sleigh bells in the wind. Heck, there’s no better way to explore the Colorado backcountry, or pull up to a nice restaurant, even. Book your dogsled tour in the morning, afternoon or twilight and pair it with corresponding dining reservations at local favorite, Krabloonik. That’s the tradition.

A TIME TO SHINE ON THE ICE

We can’t be sure, but something tells us you’ll catch a star here – all kinds of stars. In fact, if you decide to go skating at the foot of Aspen Mountain, under the starry night’s sky, you may just wish upon a few. Believe us when we say that this could very well mean the vacation of your dreams. At least we know that the freshly polished ice and tinsel garland dressings make for glittering holiday memories.

‘OH WHAT FUN IT IS TO TUBE!

Again, call us Nostradamus but we have visions of sugar-plum- donut-dads and a whole lot of family laughter dancing in our heads. We know the kids will love it. All you have to do is get them the “Activities Pass” tickets and…Poof! They’re off to the tubing slopes for a couple of hours! The tix are also good for the Alpine Coaster ride; the multiple lanes are lift-served and carved into the Meadows at Elk Camp, with lighting facilities to illuminate the runs at night during Ullr Nights festivities and on special holidays.

SNOWSHOE TOURS

If you’re one to appreciate nature as was intended, this is happiness.
The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) offers daily snowshoe tours on Aspen and Snowmass. So strap on those mountain-chic kicks and travel along foothill streams and ridgelines while learning about mountain ecology with an ACES Naturalist guide. Tours are offered through a partnership between ACES, Aspen Skiing Company, and the White River National Forest (USFS). Maybe they’ll let you carve your initials in a tree. Maybe they won’t.

One thing is certain. After all the action around town, your cozy Aspen villa along with our professional 5-star services and staff will have you jingling all the way back to your home away from home.

As the end of Yom Kippur opens the door to everything that is good and pleasant for you and your loved ones, Villazzo Operations Director, David Siauvaud opens his doors with outstanding Kosher services for all to enjoy.

Villazzo is always one step ahead, consistently aligning its services with its clientele’s preferences. And, Kosher Food service has been a frequent request since Villazzo graciously established its first clients in 2002. Fortunately, Mr. Siauvaud comes with nearly a decade of relevant professional experience, and when he speaks about his current role at Villazzo, it is clear that he is a competent leader and a man who understands what Kosher food preparation is all about.

We asked Mr. Siauvaud a handful of questions regarding Villazzo’s Kosher services. It is our pleasure to share with you his answers, delivered in the most charming and characteristic French accent.

What exactly does Villazzo’s Kosher food preparation entail?

“Well, when a ‘Kosher’ experience is requested, we work meticulously to accommodate our community when and where appropriate, from A to Z, really. We certify that the foods are Kosher – properly prepared in accordance with the Jewish dietary laws. Even our champagne aces the test.

The origins, significance and principals associated with “kashruth” – Jewish dietary laws – are complex. Our special behind-the-scenes preparations are rather extensive but it all happens in a convenient and timely manner.

As per enduring traditions, any contact between meat and dairy products is avoided at all cost, and the food is invariably treated according to specific laws. Should any meat be served, it is procured with a minimum of pain to the animal, for example. And, the food served will never contain those ingredients considered to be inherently unsuitable or unorthodox, like pork or shellfish.”

Are the food and kitchen inspected by a rabbi?

“Our Kosher food suppliers are the best. Actually, quality control begins before the food is even introduced into the equation, with our selection of the villa and its amenities. Because meat and dairy are never to touch, the villa comes equipped with two refrigerators, two kitchen sinks, two dish washers, and all of the appropriate dishware, glassware, silver, etc. Before our guests arrive, a rabbi pays the villa a special visit to say his prayers and give everything his final blessing.

The inspecting rabbi examines not only the instruments and appliances used to prepare the meals but also the process by which our food is made and served.

Our aim is to ensure adequate supervision of purity, quality and overall compliance by our Kosher sources, suppliers and appointed staff.”

What about the staff? Who prepares and serves the food?

“The experience does not only adhere to Kosher customs, it is tailored to personal preferences and persuasions. In fact, you may request a male or female chef and/or butler. If there are women guests present at your villa, and everyone would feel more comfortable with a female butler, for instance, we would make certain that this is the case. That way the wives and moms can enjoy the pool and relax.”

Anything else you would like your guests to know?

Yes, you don’t have to be Jewish to request Kosher! It can be enjoyed be everyone!

Also, I would like larger families to know that we can help with transportation to and from the airport, if need be. This part of the trip can get a bit complicated for some and I encourage it. Our team is here to help in every way we can. I want our guests to be absolutely happy with every aspect of their stay.

Fortunately, Mr. Siauvaud and his Villazzo team are readily available to you for any further questions or special needs you may have. So, don’t hesitate to reach out and toast to life with them!

Consider an Escape to Ibiza

Live a thrilling, wild adventure or hide in a haven of perfect tranquility. The little White Isle on the blue Mediterranean, with her radiant beaches and color-drenched nightlife can offer many choices. But whatever you fancy, you are guaranteed a unique holiday, enriched to the fullest by our staff (at your disposal), our infinite amenities (at your command), and a five-star hotel for you and you alone: home in the lap of unimaginable luxury.

Book one of our five fabulous luxury villas. And once we move you in, consider the following five suggestions as your essential guide to making memories.

TOP-5 THINGS TO DO

5. EXPLORE

Fly in and peel out to discover Ibiza as you will, by private car and personal driver, if and when you’d like. Villazzo will arrange for all your transportation, be it on wheels, water, or saddle, and is always ready when you are. Revel in a carefree, scenic ocean-drive or let one of our knowledgeable guides whisk you away, down enchanting, twisty trails to secret beaches and cliff-tops of jaw-dropping photo-ops. Founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century, the island still holds the markings of four ancient civilizations (Carthaginian, Roman, Muslim, and Christian), so there are plenty of ruins and a few excavations for would-be historians or just lovers of antiquity.

4. BEACH IT or BOAT IT

Ibiza boasts some 50 spectacular beaches. One of the most famous is Playa d’en Bossa, a three-mile stretch of white sand just south of Ibiza Town. But, you haven’t done Ibiza’s beaches justice until you’ve gone yachting along the coast. Villazzo offers chartered yachts should you desire an offshore view of the glorious Ibiza sunset while sitting back on an epic, bespoke water-tour. For those who want to venture further from land, Ibiza is ideal for snorkeling and diving. The national park of Las Salinas is a phenomenal diving site. Let Villazzo plan your seafaring adventures.

3. PARTY

Ibiza features some of the most well appointed nightclubs on earth. Popular mega-clubs on the island include Ushuaïa, Amnesia, Privilege, Underground, Destino, and Blue Marlin. Hot on our list are also Playa d’en Bossa on the eastern coast and San Antonia on the West. Deemed by many to be the party capital of the world, Ibiza welcomes Villazzo’s guests for exceptional all-day and all-night amusement. Our dedicated concierge team will see to it that your entertainment is tailored to perfection.

2. FINE DINE

Along with its reputation as a party island, Ibiza is well respected for its extraordinary restaurants. Local establishments know how to set the mood with both traditional and contemporary décor set against an unforgettable, natural backdrop. Amante Ibiza, Bambuddha, and Las Dos Lunas are just a few of the best establishments on the island. Order a local specialty such as “guisat de peix” – a hearty seafood stew with potato and garlic mayonnaise. And don’t forget to bring home some flavored sea salt. The island’s saltpans date back to 800BC.

1. RELAX

Master the art of doing nothing. Let us spoil you as you indulge in the comforts of your luxury villa. Our signature 5-Star VillaHotel Experience includes a lifestyle organized by your own private Hotel Manager and his expert team of hand-picked and uniformed staff whom we train in-house to pamper you full-time. Your personal in-villa butler/concierge, private chef, and on-call Villazzo limousine service are all included. Staying in has never been so fulfilling.

Consider this your next greatest escape, especially tailored and delivered to you by Villazzo. Your little white isle on the blue Mediterranean awaits.

It’s the coldest time of the year and we all like to cozy up by a nice fire, but there is plenty of outdoor activities that will entertain you all Winter long. Pick your favorite winter wonderland adventure and let us know!

1. DOG SLEDDING:

Experience an exciting dog sled ride through the Snowmass backcountry being pulled by 8-10 Alaskan Huskies for over an hour. This thrilling adventure will allow you to fully enjoy the wilderness whether it’s sunny or rainy. Try the twilight ride too where you will take a pit stop in the woods to enjoy some warm drinks, soup and a cozy bonfire. Don’t forget to ask the musher for your turn to drive the sled!
Find more information here.

2. SNOW TUBING:

Grab a tube, ride the lift up the hill and slide down at full speed! Snow tubing is one of the most fun activities for adults and kids and Snowmass now offers facilities with lighting to illuminate the hills even at night during festivities and special holidays. You can also reserve the lanes for special events and have a private fun day with your family and friends!
Find more information here.

3. SKIING:

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier, Aspen will satisfy all your needs with 4 mountains offering every slope difficulty from easy to hard. If you are a beginner try Buttermilk or Snowmass, both with “learn to sky” zones, but stay away from Aspen Mountain. Expert skiers on the other hand will get the best experience from Aspen Mountain with top-to-bottom runs and if you really want to get a kick out of it try the 700 ft vertical hike to the top fo Aspen Highland bowl!
Find more information here.

4. SNOWBOARDING:

If you love snowboarding don’t miss Buttermilk Mountain, with its 22–foot superpipe it’s been voted #1 by Transworld Snowboarding Magazine Reader’s Poll, or try Snowmass Mountain with its beginner terrain park. If it’s your first time, don’t worry, they say “it takes only 3 days to learn”, but why not get a teacher who will help you get started. Don’t forget you will fall and it will hurt, but you can always get up again.
Find more information here.

5. SNOWSHOEING:

If you are looking for a family activity, getting in touch with nature, or just a good workout, snowshoeing might just be the right thing for you. With a huge variety of trails and views, Aspen Mountains can make your snowshoeing experience unforgettable. Explore the snowy forests on your own or with a guided tour, either way you will love it. And with night tours available as well, why not make it a romantic date night ending with a dinner reservation at Elk Camp Restaurant!
Find more information here.

6. ICE FISHING:

Ice Fishing isn’t for everyone, but if you try you’ll get hooked! Remember to dress up warm since you will be sitting in the cold for hours, while waiting to catch some good fish. Then drill a hole in the ice, drop your line and just sit back and relax. If you are not the most patient angler and want to maximize your time, just read a book, practice your photography or maybe meditate while you are waiting for your fish to get hooked. Now it’s time for dinner, just throw your catch of day on the grill and enjoy!
Find more information here.

7. ICE SKATING:

The perfect entertainment for kids and adults alike, ice skating is always a fun activity. With two indoor skating arenas and an outdoor ice skating pond, Aspen has it all. Just strap your skates on and go with the flow! And if you are a first-timer, lessons are available, as well as for the experts that want to improve their technique. If you are more into team sports they also offer ice hockey, or curling clinics, so don’t hold back and get on the ice!
Find more information here.

8. BUILDING A SNOWMAN:

Here’s an all time favorite, build your very own snowman and make it a whole family entertainment, that the kids will absolutely love. All you need to make it perfect are a carrot, some buttons, a scarf and a hat, then just get your hands in the snow and get started! And if you want your snowman to stand out try to make an upside down one. When you are done take pictures of your own creation and send them to family and friends!

9. BUILDING AN IGLOO:

If you are more entrepreneurial, you could try building an igloo. You should definitely get some help and have a few hours available but wouldn’t it be amazing to have a picnic in your very own igloo a few hours later? Here is a tip! The snow needs to be very solid but no worries, if your snow is too soft you can always harden it by adding some water to it.

10. SNOWBALL FIGHT:

Who hasn’t taken part in a snowball fight at least once in their life? Well if you haven’t you better get on it now! Gather all your friends out in the snow, start rolling your snowballs and just throw them at each other. Doesn’t that sound like fun? So what are you waiting for?

Our Founder and CEO Christian Jagodzinski just returned from a scouting trip to Europe and the Caribbean with the goal of opening two new jet-set destinations, St Barths and Ibiza for our 5-star clientele.

“At Villazzo, we do the searching and evaluating for our guests.

We look at every single luxury vacation villa we come across in a target destination,

Vacation Like a Billionaire: 11 of the Most Expensive Villas in the World

Sometimes more is more. A whole lot more. That’s the case with these over-the-top luxury villas. Whether their own island playgrounds, protected nature preserves or part of larger resorts, they all share certain things: abundant space, stunning design, toys galore, dedicated A-team staff and, of course, privacy that is simply sublime. (All-inclusive rates are per week for a full house during high but not holiday season and don’t include taxes.) (more…)

Villazzo announces the launch of the new Villazzo Kids Program rolling out at our 30 VillaHotels located in Miami Beach, St Tropez and Aspen. In response to the growing global demand of family travel and their evolving needs, the program redefines family experiences within the VillaHotel and introduces more meaningful branded amenities for young travelers. (more…)